“It was the most amazing golf course experience I have ever had,” recalled Payton.

Rayshon Payton consults with his caddie during The First Tee Open at Pebble Beach, Calif. in 2005.

Reflecting on the impact The First Tee Open had on his life, Payton said, “It truly taught me that if you wake up every day and work towards a goal, that your dreams could come true.”

Payton’s most memorable moment from the tournament was when he holed out from the bunker on the 13th hole. This incredible shot was captured on camera during the televised event—watch the video clip of the extraordinary shot!

Just one year after his experience at Pebble Beach, Payton was designated as one of The First Tee Scholars in 2006. As The First Tee Scholar, he was selected to address Congress at The First Tee Congressional Breakfast and inform them of the powerful impact The First Tee has had on his life and the lives of young people across the United States.

Rayshon with The First Tee Trustee Jack Nicklaus at the 2006 Congressional Breakfast

Rayshon visits the White House Press Briefing Room during his internship

On his way to achieving his dream, Payton interned at The White House, working in The White House Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs where he had the opportunity to work with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett.